Removing Excess SP2 Install Files From HD

[Deano]

I currently have SP2 installed and up to date on my computer. I also
have A: my original FULL XP install disk. B: SP2 install disk from MS
and C: Slipstreamed and functional XP/SP2 CD.
My question is this: WHICH files in the Windows folder can I SAFELY
delete now that everything is up and running OK? Also, XP seems to have
several hidden backup folders that grow and grow. As I prefer to do my
OWN backups, how can I find/remove these unauthorized backups and
possibly prevent them from recurring? Unless, of course, they ARE a
requirement for restore points. I have Googled this subject without
much success for straight answers, but I would also appreciate any links
to sites that offer help with disk cleanups. Thanks. ;-Deano

 

[old jon]

I currently have SP2 installed and up to date on my computer. I also
have A: my original FULL XP install disk. B: SP2 install disk from MS and
C: Slipstreamed and functional XP/SP2 CD.
My question is this: WHICH files in the Windows folder can I SAFELY
delete now that everything is up and running OK? Also, XP seems to have
several hidden backup folders that grow and grow. As I prefer to do my
OWN backups, how can I find/remove these unauthorized backups and possibly
prevent them from recurring? Unless, of course, they ARE a requirement
for restore points. I have Googled this subject without much success for
straight answers, but I would also appreciate any links to sites that
offer help with disk cleanups. Thanks. ;-Deano

Hi Deano. Open your Windows folder. The list starts with files beginning
with $.
Click on the first, hold down Shift, right click on the last of them ($ that
is.) then do a Properties. God they do take up a lot of space.
These are your M$ updates. Stored so that should one cause you problems, you
have the chance to uninstall it.
The choice is yours.
bw..OJ

 

[R. McCarty]

Do not remove $hf_mig$ - See the following MS KB article:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=328848

 

[Borg hater]

Sure would be nice if the updates left no traces behind. Did their job and
left the scene.
Would work out fine on my system as I use imaging prior to each update
session in case things botch.
My system restore is disabled for similar reasons.
Such would also reduce the image filesize as well.